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The SDHC Health & Wellbeing Podcast
Episode 17 - Breaking Barriers: The Role of Community Pharmacy in Modern Healthcare with Hursh Gagda
Welcome to the Health and Wellbeing podcast by Hillbrow Health and Wellbeing and SDHC, hosted by Dr Nick Harvey. In this enlightening episode, we dive into the dynamic world of community pharmacy with Hursh Gagda, an experienced pharmacist and Community Pharmacy PCN lead. Hursh sheds light on the integral role pharmacies play in patient care, the innovative Pharmacy First service, and the collaboration between community pharmacies and healthcare professionals.
Discover how community pharmacies are breaking traditional roles, offering services beyond prescription dispensing, and discussing topics like blister packs, medication side effects, and stopping smoking. Gain insights into the future of pharmacy, including the exciting development of pharmacist independent prescribers and the impact on healthcare accessibility.
Join us as we explore how community pharmacies are not just dispensing medications but are vital players in providing accessible healthcare and supporting the NHS's long-term vision. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of healthcare services and the pivotal role pharmacists play in enriching public health.

Episode 17 - Breaking Barriers: The Role of Community Pharmacy in Modern Healthcare with Hursh Gagda
Topics & Discussion Points
The Health & Wellbeing Podcast Episode 17
- 00:00:08 Podcast Introduction
- 00:01:46 Hirsch’s Role and Challenges
- 00:03:13 Understanding Community Pharmacy Surrey and Sussex
- 00:04:46 Pharmacy First Service Overview
- 00:07:50 Accessing Community Pharmacy Services
- 00:08:41 Information Sharing Between Pharmacies and GPs
- 00:12:12 Services Provided by Pharmacies
- 00:15:52 Medication Compliance and Blister Packs
- 00:19:34 Addressing Side Effects of Medications
- 00:21:47 Emergency Cases and Pharmacist Training
- 00:24:12 Impact on NHS and Patient Care
- 00:25:28 Importance of Community Pharmacists
- 00:25:42 Future of Pharmacy and Independent Prescribing
- 00:29:11 Pharmacists in Behavioral Health Support
- 00:31:26 HRT and Stock Shortages Communication
- 00:33:41 Closing Thoughts and Benefits of Pharmacy
Published: Mar 19, 2025